| How
to become a recording artist |
| So you have your own songs,
your good singing voice and your dreams of stardom. What’s the next
step? |
 |
 |
| What
makes a big star? |
| In Philippine television, more often than
not, the influx of reality-TV shows in the past that aimed to discovering
potential stars has produced winners and a bunch of talents that unfortunately
until now never met people’s expectations! |
|
|
| Charice
excited to perform with Regine Velasquez |
| Charice Pempengco will
mesmerize her kababayans when she performs for her first major concert in
Manila titled Charice: The Journey Begins. This one-night only event will
be held at the SMX Convention Center on June 27 at 8 pm. What makes this
event truly special for the 17-year-old singer is the fact that she will
be performing with her idol, Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez. |
|
|
| Charice
makes single debut on Oprah |
| Filipino singer Charice
Pempengco has scored another triumph in her international career when her
single Note to God, released only in the United States, broke into
the Amazon.com and iTunes music charts. |
|
|
| Sharon
will do movie with Gabby if… |
| SHARON CUNETA said that
with the right conditions, she will reunite onscreen with ex-husband GABBY
‘in a heartbeat.’ |
|
|
| The
MegaStar on Motherhood by Sharon Cuneta |
| I admit that I have been
truly blessed in the industry, but I have to say that the world’s greatest
profession for me is motherhood. |
|
|
| Spare
Martin, please |
| IF Martin Nievera's intention
when he altered the ending of our national anthem is to be controversial,
well, he most certainly got what he wanted. |
|
|
| Philippines
celebrates Pacquiao's victory over Hatton |
| The Philippines erupted
in euphoria Sunday as Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao knocked out Britain's
Ricky Hatton in the second round... |
|
|
| Lani
teams up with Earl Turner in Vegas shows |
| Long-time Vegas entertainer
Earl Turner and versatile Philippine vocalist Lani Misalucha join forces
beginning Wednesday April 22 at the Las Vegas Hilton’s Shimmer Cabaret
for a show, entitled Voices, that promises to be as dynamic and inspiring
as any in town. |
|
|
| I
Love piNoY |
| Start spreading the news:
Pinoys are taking over the Big Apple. |
|
|
 
How to become a recording
artist
by Cris O. Ramos,
Jr
Manila Bulletin, July 3, 2009
So you have your own songs,
your good singing voice and your dreams of stardom. What’s the next
step?
Put out your album by getting
a recording deal or a distribution deal.
It’s easier said than
done. The music industry is in its worst shape ever. There’s piracy,
inflation and downloading to contend with, among other things.
With what seems like a losing
battle, why still bother?
Most of the times, it’s
because of the romantic notion of having one out. Ask any recording artist
and he’d tell you that there’s nothing like leafing through the
inlay cover of your own recorded CD, let alone the exhiliration of giving
it a spin on your player (or someone else’s).
And even if nowadays, people
are said to download songs more than they buy CDs, the latter is still the
flashier business card.
While it is extremely difficult
to snag a record deal, it is not impossible. This is where having a quality
demo comes in. It doesn’t have to be recorded in a state-of-the-art
studio; a demo recording that is audible enough is, well, good enough.
Submitting a demo is much
like submitting your resume for employment. Since the label peeps receive
tons of demos (mostly unsolicited), you have to make yours stand out. Make
it snazzy, but don’t go overboard.
If you have no experience
at graphic designing, have a capable graphic artist do the mock CD cover
of your album.
Include an artist profile.
Like your resume, it should be well-structured so that the label people can
get to the essentials (what music to expect, any qualities, achievements
or pieces of artist history that could mean brownie points for you and –
most importantly – your contact details) fast. Remember, label peeps
are busy peeps.
Here are the stages an aspirant
may have to go through once the demo has been submitted:
The first level is the A
& R (Artist and Repertoire) level. The A & R’s are the first
people to check out your demo. If the A & R finds potential in your music,
they will forward it to his label manager.
If the label manager is
also taken by what he hears, he and other key people from the company will
probably schedule a meeting with you. In the meeting, they will ask you about
your music, or ask for other songs that you might not have been included
in your demo.
These people might also
check out one of your gigs or request for a private performance. Whether
it’s one or the other, put your best foot forward. Punctuality and
appearance, mind you, matter.
If the executives like you,
they will sign you up. Congrats - but that’s not the end of it.
Next is to be in the know
on the kind of deal they might offer. The standard deal is usually a one
album, second album optional deal. It means that if your first album does
well (about 6,000 copies sold at least), you just might get a second album
with that label.
As part of the deal, you
will likely receive a minimum advance royalties and a marketing outline (store
displays, album events, etc) to promote your album.
While it makes more sense
to have your own publishing copyright for your music for more control of
the accounting of your royalties, standard here in the Philippines is the
label assumes property of your publishing. In the Philippines, only names
with good track records such as Ogie Alcasid, Ryan Cayabyab and Lito Camo
have their own publishing.
Sometimes, a label might
believe in your music, but aren’t as sure in your chances of selling.
That’s when a distribution deal may come in.
In the distribution deal,
the artist usually has publishing rights. The downside is that the label
is not really obligated to spend a dime or even work on promoting your album.
Proceed with caution because if your album doesn’t meet the sales
expectations of the labels, you are on your own once again.
If you’re unable to
get either types of deal, you may try going indie. If so, be prepared to
do a whole lot of work including marketing your CD.
The bright side in going
indie is that you get to owe your success to nobody but yourself. Going indie
is not so bad: There are a lot of indie bands right now who are doing well
financially.
In all these, do not to
obsess on the money. Remember that how rich you become from your music should
not be the ultimate measure of success.
Inded, if you really love
your music unconditionally, the commercial success or downfall of your album
should not matter to you as much as the satisfaction you derive from creating
a thing of art. Good luck!
What makes a big
star?
by Walden Sadiri
Manila Bulletin, July 3, 2009
 In
Philippine television, more often than not, the influx of reality-TV shows
in the past that aimed to discovering potential stars has produced winners
and a bunch of talents that unfortunately until now never met people’s
expectations!
It is then a bold move for
GMA-7 to come out with a show that’s geared towards picking its next
male and female star in their latest star search program aptly titled “Are
You The Next Big Star?” After hundreds of contenders who auditioned,
the final 16 were announced and Saturday night, the first bottom three will
be named after weeks of grueling and very competitive performances.
So in this generation where
singers and actors abound, what makes a big star?
Louie Ignacio, the director
of “Are You The Next Big Star?” explained, “There are two
aspects in entertainment that could make a star. It’s in singing and
acting. Kahit magkaiba ‘yun kung singer ka or artista ka, para sa akin
dapat isa lang. It should be a complete package.”
He added that discipline
is a big factor in becoming a star.
“You will also succeed
in your career with discipline. The question is whether these talented
contestants are working hard, continuously honing their crafts and are
disciplined...ngayon ‘yung talent mo and then ‘yung overall look
mo na paano ka mamahalin ng tao especially the masa... hindi naman dapat
maganda ka, kailangan lang pleasant ka na pwede kang i-idolize, mukha kang
mabait, madali kang lapitan and of course mukha kang artista dapat,”
opined Louie.
As for Danny Tan, musical
director, composer and one of the judges of “Are You The Next Big
Star?” he believes looks play an important role in becoming a star.
“It’s a different
generation and Pinoys like their stars to have good looks... when you say
a star, for example in our show, you’d first notice how well they look
on stage. Pero kapag nag-perform na pag sumasablay siya, nawawala ang
pagkamaganda at guwapo niya. It is still a singing competition, your looks
count but you have to step it up with your talent,” he remarked.
He also believes that achieving
stardom or discovering a star is harder than before.
“These contestants
become popular the easy way. Parang ang dali-dali nilang na-attain ang stardom.
Concept pa lang panalo ka na kaya feeling nila magaling na at ayaw na mag-aral.
Unlike real stars who started from the bottom and because of hard work
they’re able to cherish what they have achieved and they keep on working
hard and studying their crafts,” he remarked.
Time will tell if the two
winners of “Are You The Next Big Star?” would deserve such title
of being a star. But at the moment, all the Kapuso viewers’ eyes will
be on all the “Circle of 16” as they wait who among them will be
on the brink of elimination.
As a recap, two weeks ago,
16-year-old Franchesca Farr emerged as the “best female former”
while 18-year-old theater actress Christine Allado was declared the worst.
While last Saturday Geoff Taylor, Anton Cruz and Jay Perillo performed beyond
the judges’ satisfaction and became favorites. The 23-year-old Geoff
from Cagayan Valley was that night’s “best male performer.”
Unfortunately for PJ Gonzales,
he was voted as the worst performer.
Saturday night the “Circle
of 16” will have their first group performance before the dreaded
announcement of the “bottom three” group. And the final verdict
will be at the hands of the judges – Danny Tan, Mon Faustino, Annie
Quintos, Randy Santiago and Pops Fernandez.
“Are You The Next Big
Star?” Saturday will be temporarily hosted by Richard Gomez with Keempee
de Leon. It airs after “Pinoy Records” only at GMA-7.
Charice excited to perform
with Regine Velasquez
by Jocelyn
Dimaculangan
Philippine Entertainment Portal, June 21, 2009
 After
wowing audiences abroad with her powerful voice, Charice Pempengco will mesmerize
her kababayans when she performs for her first major concert in Manila titled
Charice: The Journey Begins. This one-night only event will be held at the
SMX Convention Center on June 27 at 8 pm. What makes this event truly special
for the 17-year-old singer is the fact that she will be performing with her
idol, Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez.
Charice has made the rounds
in international talk shows such as StarKing, a popular TV program in South
Korea; Ti Lascio Una Canzone in Italy; plus The Ellen Degeneres Show and
Oprah in the United States.
In the local music scene,
Star Records produced her two albums: her self-titled debut album, which
is now certified Platinum and her second album, My Inspiration, which already
reached the Gold mark.
Soon, she will be releasing
an international album under Warner Music to be produced by David Foster.
Just last May, Charice said
that she hoped to perform a duet with Ms. Regine. Her prayer will finally
be granted when they perform together in Charice: The Journey Begins.
In her press conference
for the said event, Charice expressed her happiness and her nervousness for
staging her first major concert.
"Siyempre po, una sa lahat,
kinakabahan po ako kasi po first time ko talagang magkaroon ng major concert
sa buong buhay ko po, and wish ko lang po sana maging successful po. Super
po akong na-excite na umuwi dito para sa concert na ‘to."
Is it true that she actually
turned down other concert opportunities abroad just to be able to perform
this June 27?
"Hindi naman po concert,
medyo may mga nacancel lang po ‘yong ibang recording sessions namin
ni Sir David Foster. Pero nagpaalam naman po ako sa kanya and ‘yon nga
lang po, ‘yong kapalit, nagpromise lang ako sa kanya na magsta-stay
po ako dun for two months para po sa recording po naming dalawa."
Charice will be leaving
on June 29 for the United States to finish her recording sessions for this
Warner Music album. Right after that, she is scheduled to begin a world tour
in Canada.
How does she feel about
performing with Asia's Songbird?
"Super po akong masaya kasi
po before po mangyari itong concert na ‘to, nasa L.A. po ako non. Nagkaron
po siya ng concert sa Long Beach [California]. Talagang hindi po ako nanonood
ng concert pero kapag big fan po talaga ako ng isang artist, pumupunta po
ako.
"Nanonood po talaga ako,
nakikiloko dun sa mga kumukuha ng picture sa kanya. Super po kong humanga
sa kanya kasi super bait po n'ya."
ON BEING COMPARED TO SARAH
GERONIMO. Some people are comparing Charice with the Popstar Princess Sarah
Geronimo. Is this okay with the young singer?
"Idol ko din yun si Ate
Sarah. Pero yun nga po, marami nga po akong nababalitaan na ano po...yun
nga may kompitensya raw. Kasi sinasabi nila kung sino daw mas sikat. Hindi
po ako nakikipagkompitensya kung sinong mas sikat o kung sinong mas magaling.
Ang sakin lang po, gusto ko pong marating yung dream ko as an international
star. Gusto kong marating talaga yung dream ko. Si Ate Sarah idol ko and
alam ko pong siya ang naunang sumikat sa ‘kin. So talagang taas noo
po ako sa kanya.
"Wala po talagang competition
o away sa aming dalawa. Kasi everytime na nakikita ko sya parang nahihiya
pa rin ako kasi talagang super idol ko po talaga siya," says Charice shyly.
Since she has been singing
at a very young age, does she feel that she missed out on having a normal
childhood?
"‘Di ko po naisip
‘yan kasi...‘yong mga ginagawa ko po dati, nagagawa ko pa rin po
ngayon like nakikipaglaro po ako sa brother ko. Minsan kasama ko naman po
siya sa States. Okay lang po sa 'kin kung ano ‘yong na-e-experience
ko ngayon."
CRUSH ON SAM MILBY. In her
past interviews, Charice has been vocal in saying that she has a crush on
international singer Josh Groban. But this time, she admitted that her crush
in local showbiz is Sam Milby.
Charice revealed that she
started admiring Sam when she saw him for the first time when she was still
a contestant in Little Big Star.
"Mabait po si Sam [saka]
pogi, talagang nasa kanya lahat. Naging crush ko siya noong Little Big Star
pa lang...Hindi siya namimili talaga. Talagang dinadalaw niya ko sa dressing
room kasi ako daw yung bet niya. Tapos dumadalaw pa po siya sa taping ng
Little Big Star. Kaya yun, simula nun, hanggang ngayon siya yung crush ko."
Did they invite Sam to perform
in this concert?
"Gusto ko po talaga siya
sa concert ko pero kasi po ang balita ko po nasa States siya. So sayang po
kasi gusto ko po talaga siyang pumunta."
What does she like the most
about Sam Milby? "Gusto ko po yung mata niya. Kasi parang ang amo-amo na...alam
niyo po yun na parang ang sarap sarap tignan na pagtumingin siya hot pero
ang amo. Yun po yung gusto ko."
ON DAVID FOSTER. Charice
is scheduled to go back to the States on June 29 to continue recording her
international album. Is her mentor, David Foster, coming here to the Philippines
to help promote this album?
"Meron po kaming plan kasi
magkakaroon po kami ng Asian Tour. I'm sure hindi po mawawala ang Philippines
kasi nung last time na The Repeat [concert] kami noon ni David Foster, nagulat
siya kasi ang daming Pilipino. So, ginawa niya akong pang-finale niya. Kasi
talagang sobrang dami pong Pilipino. Parang sabi niya, 'Okay, I should go
to the Philippines.' So, I'm sure pupunta po siya."
Will David be her special
guest in Pupunta rin ba siya sa concert mo?
"Ay hindi po. Kasi po hindi
lang po ako yung nakikipag-work sa kanya sa paggawa ng album. Marami po kaming
magrerelease ng album ngayon. Super busy siya kasi araw-araw iba -ibang artists
yung kasama niya. Like ako, Monday ako, Tuesday si Michael Bublé.
Wednesday si Cody, Thursday si Whitney Houston. So ang hirap-hirap para sa
kanya kasi sabay-sabay po kaming magrerelease ng album.
Aside from Regine Velasquez,
Charice: The Journey Begins will also feature Christian Bautista and Charice's
batchmates in Little Big Star Season 1. Unfortunately, Sam Concepcion won't
be able to attend this reunion.
Charice's mother, Mommy
Raquel, explained that Sam won't be in the Philippines during that time because
he is part of the Star Magic concert abroad. However, she pointed out that
Sam was willing to tape a video message in support of Charice's first major
concert.
Tickets to Charice: The
Journey Begins are available in Ticketnet outlets (Tel. No. 911-5555). Don't
miss this one-night only event on June 27, 2009 (Saturday) at the SMX Convention
Center, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.
Charice makes single debut
on Oprah
by Pocholo
Concepcion
Asian Journal, May 22, 2009
 MANILA—Filipino singer
Charice Pempengco has scored another triumph in her international career
when her single Note to God, released only in the United States, broke
into the Amazon.com and iTunes music charts.
Amazon is America’s
largest online retailer, while iTunes accounts for 70 percent of worldwide
sales of digital downloads and is the No. 1 music vendor globally.
Note to God is currently
No. 2 on Amazon’s MP3 Downloads Bestsellers and Hot New Releases section,
and No. 1 on the Movers and Shakers, or the biggest gainer in sales rank
as of Tuesday. It is also No. 9 on the iTunes chart.
The song is partly an emotional
prayer whose lyrics are about what one would say in a letter to God.
It has just been posted
on YouTube—the video-sharing website where the world discovered
Charice—and is the first single in her forthcoming debut album being
produced by her musical mentor, David Foster.
It is actually a cover version
of a composition by Diane Warren (who also wrote Aerosmith’s I
Don’t Want To Miss a Thing; Celine Dion’s Because You Loved
Me; and Toni Braxton’s Unbreak My Heart.
Oprah show
Charice first sang the song
on America’s highest-rating TV show Oprah on Monday, May 18—the
day it was also released as a digital download.
On the Amazon Bestsellers
chart, Note to God ranks behind the Black Eyed Peas’s Boom
Boom Pow but has overtaken Lady GaGa’s Poker Face, Miley
Cyrus’ The Climb, Taylor Swift’s Love Story,
Beyoncé’s Halo, and Coldplay’s Viva La Vida.
On the iTunes chart,
Charice’s single is ahead of Eminem’s Beautiful.
Charice was again featured
in a high-profile show on May 9 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las
Vegas, Nevada, where she performed with Foster in a tribute concert for Celine
Dion.
June 12 celebration
On May 24, Charice was scheduled
to make her second appearance as a guest on the Italian musical variety
show Ti lascio una canzone (Leavin’ You a Song). Its producers
reportedly insisted that she return after having sung in the program’s
season premiere in April.
She comes home to Manila
on June 8 to participate in the Philippine Independence Day celebrations
on June 12. She flies back to the United States on June 13 to finish recording
her album.
WATCH
VIDEO! Charice sings Note to God on the Oprah Winfrey show, May 18,
2009
Sharon will do movie with
Gabby if…
by Jojo P. Panaligan
May 19, 2009
 SHARON CUNETA said that
with the right conditions, she will reunite onscreen with ex-husband GABBY
‘in a heartbeat.’
Megastar Sharon Cuneta told
Manila Bulletin Online that she is willing to do a movie with her
daughter-actress KC Concepcion and ex-husband Gabby Concepcion as long as
“feelings and privacy are not compromised.”
The statement was in reaction
to TV host-actress Kris Aquino who recently said in the ABS-CBN showbiz talk
show “The Buzz” that it would be nice if the family would do a
film together.
Although no such project
is in the works yet, Sharon said that “anything is possible.”
“If KC herself says
she wants us to do a movie with her Papa, and if it has a good script, then
I’ll do it in a heartbeat,” Sharon said.
Public interest in a
Sharon-Gabby tandem was revived by Gabby’s cameo role in Sharon’s
latest blockbuster film, “BFF.” During the “BFF” movie
premiere, fans were tickled pink on seeing the ex-couple onscreen.
“I anticipated such
a reaction,” Sharon said. “The Sharon-Gabby love team, after all,
has been a beloved tandem.”
This public fervor, however,
is the same reason the Megastar is careful in selecting a suitable project
for them.
“I don’t want
people to make a spectacle of it to the point that peace and harmony in both
my family and Gabby’s are affected,” said Sharon who has two children
(Frankie and Miel) by her husband, Senator Kiko Pangilinan.
How did she feel while shooting
with Gabby in “BFF?”
“Para akong
na-‘Twilight Zone!’” she exclaimed. “The last time Gabby
saw me, sexy pa ako (laughs). I remember thinking during the shoot kung maayos
ba ang foundation ko para naman hindi ako putlang-putla at mukhang
bangkay!”
Sharon said that working
with her ex-husband has never been a problem with Kiko. She said that Kiko
is broadminded when it comes to her work and they always discuss all her
career decisions.
It cuts both ways. The Megastar
said that she is all for her husband’s candidacy as Vice-President in
the coming elections and that she will go wherever he goes.
“Yes, I am ready to
become the second First Lady,” said Sharon. “I believe Kiko is
more than prepared for the job so I should be the same. It’s not too
hard for me because my father was mayor so I know first hand what to do having
seen how my mother ably supported my Dad.“
Despite the possibility
of their lives becoming even more complicated should Kiko win, Sharon said
she did not dissuade Kiko from pursuing his dream of serving the public from
a broader platform.
“I actually think it
will be the people’s loss if Kiko doesn’t win,” she said.
While the election is still
months away, Sharon busies herself with work. She has come up with an album
under Sony Music Entertainment titled “Children’s Rhymes &
Lullabies.”
“Children’s Rhymes
& Lullabies” is a collection of English and Filipino songs for children.
The tracks are divided into several activities that children find themselves
doing in a day. These include songs for School/Learning Time (“Alphabet
Song,” “Seven Days In A Week”), Play Time (“If You’re
Happy And You Know It,” “I’m A Little Teapot”), Nap Time
(“Pure Imagination,” “Rainbow Connection”), Activity
Time (“Bahay Kubo,” “Pen Pen De Sarapen”) and Nap Time
(“Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” “When You Wish Upon A
Star”).
The songs were picked by
Sharon and Kiko themselves who both felt Filipino parents and children need
something like this.
“As parents ourselves,
we certainly thought that these songs from our homeland are rarely heard
by today’s generation,” she said. “These are good songs and
I know this for a fact because I tested their likeability on Frankie and
Miel. They liked all the songs here so we are confident other children will
do so, too.”
“Rhymes” is a
two-CD set which includes minus-one of all the songs and an inter-active
booklet with lyrics. Tracks in the album can be downloaded on iTunes.
“Although making an
album for me is just like breathing – after all, I was a singer first
before becoming an actress – I always make sure all my albums are well
thought-of and executed. I want the songs here to be passed on from one
generation to another. I don’t want them to die or to be forgotten just
because children were not made aware of their existence.”
Sharon gave suggestions
on how to raise children.
“The first time they
throw a tantrum, ignore it so they’d get the idea that it doesn’t
work. If you have to discipline them, make sure they understand the reason
behind it.”
She added: “Give them
as much of your time as possible. No matter how hard you work or how much
money you make, you can never makeup for lost time. Lastly, always observe
the demarcation line between parent and children. It’s for their own
good that they recognize authority when they need it.”
Sharon and KC will soon
be touring the US and Canada for several shows. After having successfully
performed in the USA in the past, the Megastar and her daughter KC Concepcion
are slated to brighten up the East Coast concert stage once more on Sunday,
May 31, 2009 at the NJPAC, Prudential Hall at One Center Street, Newark,
NJ. You can purchase tickets @
www.tiketanonline.com
The MegaStar on
Motherhood
by Sharon Cuneta
Philippine Star, May 2009
 I
admit that I have been truly blessed in the industry, but I have to say that
the world’s greatest profession for me is motherhood. It may be the
most difficult job in the world, but it’s also the most fulfilling.
For me, nothing compares to being a mom to KC, Frankie and Miel.
My own Mommy Elaine is the
one who inspires me to be the best mom to my kids. She set a very good example
for me by being there for me through good times and bad. Even now that I
have my own family, she’s always there for me and I want to be like
that as my kids grow up.
One of the most important
things I learned from her is the importance of good health and proper nutrition.
This is why I make sure that I give only what’s best for my kids. From
her, I also learned the importance of nurturing your children’s dreams
and ambitions in life.
Iba-iba ang ages ng mga
anak ko. KC is an adult already so I don’t need to worry so much about
her, even if I still do. But the two, since they’re still growing and
their personalities are being formed, I watch out for them. Friends kami
but I’m still Mommy so medyo kailangan ng disiplina. But I always let
them know that I’m there for them.
I try to have a balanced
parenting style. I’m strict, but at the same time still a friend so
that they can go to me for anything. I want my daughters to be comfortable
sharing their experiences and thoughts with me.
I read a lot to Frankie
and Miel, every day in fact. I’d like to stimulate their imagination
and develop in them a love affair with books. For me, that’s better
than just letting them sit in front of the TV the whole day.
The girls also like to spend
time with me in the kitchen. I remember that at a very early age Frankie
already baked apple pie with me. Miel’s first baking experience with
Frankie and me was making cupcakes, complete with aprons and chef’s
hats!
Like most Filipino moms,
I work hard to provide for my children’s needs. So building a loving
home is a top priority. I want my girls to feel how much I love them and
how much I am willing to do everything for them.
One of the most important
things that I’ve also learned as a mom is to
show support for what my
kids love to do. This builds their self-esteem and helps them do well in
school and in their chosen activities.
Like when KC decided to
join show business, I assured her that I’ll always be supportive of
her career and whatever plans she may have for the future.
It’s the same thing
with Frankie and Miel; they can count on me when it comes to their pursuits.
Right now they both love singing and dancing. But I’ll always be here
to guide them in making decisions and achieving their goals.
Being a mom is not an easy
task because we are entrusted with bodies and souls to nurture and guide.
This is why I respect all the hardworking Filipino moms who will do anything
to ensure the welfare of their children.
I think any mother in the
world, kahit reyna ka pa o sino ka pa, can receive all the applause, all
the accolades, and all the feathers in her cap... pero ang pinaka-touching
at magiging precious sa ’yo is how people talk about your children.
I am sure that like me,
other moms would say that there’s no greater feeling than seeing your
kids healthy, happy, and successful in life.
Spare Martin,
please
FREEHAND by Mario
E. Bautista
People's Journal, May 10, 2009
 IF
Martin Nievera's intention when he altered the ending of our national anthem
is to be controversial, well, he most certainly got what he wanted. Even
in the Internet, there are ongoing debates on whether his rendition of "Lupang
Hinirang" is okay or not. Other singers also sang the anthem before him in
Manny Pacquiao's fight, but no one had created the same impact that his singing
did.
Now, even politicians are
riding on the controversy and one congressman is even proposing that he be
blacklisted since Martin is an American and only Filipinos should sing the
national anthem.
As for Martin himself, he
says controversy is something he eats for breakfast. "It's nothing new to
me. But I'm disappointed as I think I did something for our country and it
makes me sad. Other singers before me also had their own interpretation,
like RJ Jacinto has a rock and roll version. I don't think binastos ko 'yung
kanta like some quarters claim. Our greatest Filipino fighter is about to
fight and I don't wanna sing the song like it's just a recording. I want
the whole world to hear it. If they want the usual rendition, di sana, they
played a recorded version na lang."
Some say he did it not to
promote himself as a singer and Concert King. "I wasn't there as Martin Nievera.
I was there to be the voice of the Filipino. The voice of Manny Pacquiao.
The song's last line, 'Ang mamatay nang dahil sa'yo', is its most powerful
and meaningful line, that's why I ended it on a high note so everyone can
hear it. For sure, you just can't please everyone."
A word of advice to the
politicians who are making "sawsaw" on the issue. There are a lot more relevant
concerns involving the country that you should attend to like widespread
poverty, corruption among yourselves, and the rampant lack of decent jobs,
so stop this foolishness already. It's just like the reaction to the Hong
Kong writer who said we're a nation of servants. We guess the truth really
hurts, when there are other more significant ways of showing our love for
our country and fellowmen, not just by words but by deeds.
Some folks also say Martin
should be punished. Gosh, politicians break and circumvent the law all the
time for their own selfish ends when they make "kurakot" and yet no one reacts
like this. We obviously don't know our priorities.
As for Pacquiao himself,
our people now hold him in high esteem as the people's champ. We don't know
why he wants to fall from his pedestal by becoming another politician who
a lot of people consider as one of the lowest of the low.
Video
of Martin singing "Lupang Hinirang"
Edu serious about marrying
Pinky
LOOKS like Edu Manzano is
serious in his plan to walk down the aisle with broadcaster Pinky Webb. After
20 years, he is having his failed marriage to Maricel Soriano annulled. They
were married in 1989 after they fell in love while doing the movie "Babaeng
Hampaslupa" but their relationship lasted only for two years.
Maricel has already signed
the petition for annulment. Edu was also previously married to Vilma Santos
in 1980 but their marriage was held in the U.S. where they also obtained
their divorce later. Edu also has two kids with flight attendant Rina Samson,
Addi and Enzo, but they never officially tied the knot.
New talent show
GMA-7 is about to start
their new talent show, “Are You the Next Big Star,” which replaces
"Pinoy Pop Superstar (PPS)" and "Pinoy Idol.” It'll be hosted by Regine
Velasquez (just like PPS) but there will be a new set of judges. Among them
are two singing stars who just did shows with ABS-CBN, Pops Fernandez (who
was with “Betty La Fea”) and Randy Santiago (director of
“Parekoy”). The others are musicians Danny Tan and Mon Faustino
and The Company's Anne Quintos.
KC on'May Bukas Pa'
THE hit ABS primetime soap,
"May Bukas Pa", has become episodic featuring different guest stars like
Claudine Barretto, Susan Roces, Gabby Concepcion, etc. Now, their newest
guest is KC Concepcion. The exposure here will help prepare KC's first starring
role in her own soap later, “Lovers in Paris.” She has to finish
taping all her scenes for both shows before she leaves with her mom Sharon
Cuneta for their concert tour in the U.S. on May 19.
Another potential hit
series
SIX years ago, ABS-CBN had
a surprise hit in “Meteor Garden,” the Taiwanese version of the
hit Japanese manga or comic series about the F4, four rich boys who are the
most popular students in an elite school. It catapulted Jerry Yan to
international stardom as Dao Ming Su, the spoiled brat leader of the group.
It's such a hit that even its replay on GMA-7 became a toprater again.
Japan later had its own
TV version, “Hanna Yori Dango,” a hit in Japan but it didn't do
well when shown by GMA-7 since the actors who played the F4 are not appealing
matinee idol types. Now, Korea has produced its own version, “Boys Over
Flowers,” which has become the highest rating show in Korea since it
started its telecast in January.
ABS held its press preview
and we were able to see the episodes to be shown on its first week of telecast
that starts tomorrow after “Tayong Dalawa.” The story follows the
same narrative previously told in "Meteor Garden.” The leader of the
four boys is now named Jun Pyo, played by model turned actor Lee Min Ho.
His friends are Kim Hyun Joong, Kim Bum, and Kim Joon. Playing the role of
Jan Di, the lead feisty girl who defies the bullying of Jun Pyo, is Koo Hye
Sun. All of them have become very popular actors in Korea, with Lee Min Ho
being named the best new actor in the local Baeksang Awards. He and his co-actors
have also become in demand as endorsers of various products.
In the first episode, a
boy bullied by the F4 is about to jump from the rooftop of a tall building
out of desperation, but Jan Di, a laundry delivery girl, arrives just in
time to save him. She hit the headlines because of her heroic act and is
given a scholarship in Shin Hwa, an exclusive university for the very rich.
But naturally, she becomes a fish out of water in her unfamiliar surroundings.
When the arrogant Jun Pyo tries to bully her, she fights him and even kicks
him on the face. Knowing he has met his match in Jan Di, Jun Pyo had her
kidnapped and tried to convince her to be his secret girlfriend, but she
rejects him.
The story is already familiar
to "Meteor Garden" fans so the main attraction of "Boys Over Flowers" will
be its new stars. The preview was held with several local fans of the series
watching with the press and they were all swooning over the Korean actors
in the show. If this is an indication of how the series will be received
by local viewers, then ABS surely has another hit in their Primetime Bida
slot.
But of course, comparisons
with the hit Chinese version cannot be avoided. Lead actor Lee Min Ho as
Jun Pyo is obviously not pure Korean but a mestizo. The scene where he is
shown taking a shower sent the fans shrieking and screaming. He's good looking
but he still lacks the charisma of Jerry Yan. As for Koo Hye Sun as lead
actress Jan Di, she also pales in comparison to Chinese actress Barbie Hsu
as San Chai. Kim Hyun Joong plays the role that Vic Shou did in “Meteor
Garden.” For us, he comes across as a not too distant relative of BB
Gandanghari.
Truth to tell, we honestly
feel that if ABS would just make its own local version of the same material,
they'll surely come up with a much better interpretation. For one thing,
they can gather an ensemble of better looking and more widely appealing stars.
Their writers can also come up with a more plausible plot development, unlike
in this Korean version where students are being bullied and about to jump
from a building with not a single teacher or school authority in sight.
Philippines celebrates Pacquiao's
victory over Hatton
Earth Times, May 3,
2009
 Manila - The
Philippines erupted in euphoria Sunday as Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao
knocked out Britain's Ricky Hatton in the second round, making history as
one of the world's greatest fighters in the ring. With the win, Pacquiao
snatched Hatton's light welterweight crown and matched a boxing record of
holding titles in six different weight divisions.
Millions of Filipinos who
packed cinemas, restaurants and public gymnasiums to watch the fight cheered
and shouted when Pacquiao sent Hatton flat on his back with a left hook in
the second round.
"Manny, you are the greatest,"
shouted one man watching the fight in a restaurant in Manila's Quezon City.
"That was an overwhelming
performance we just saw," his companion added. "Ricky Hatton never had a
chance!"
In the first round, Hatton
kissed the canvas twice after being pummelled by Pacquiao's left and right
hooks.
Pacquiao said he was surprised
at how easy the fight was.
"I didn't think it was going
to be a short fight," he said. "He hit me hard. He was strong when he hit
me in the body. But I was careful not to be hit."
President Gloria Macapagal
Arroyo, who was on a visit to Cairo, Egypt, hailed the win as another great
victory for Pacquiao.
"The president joins the
entire nation in jubilation and in thanking God for the spectacular victory
of Manny Pacquiao over Ricky Hatton," press secretary Cerge Remonde said.
"May his victory inspire
all of us to triumph against all odds," he added. "May his example of continuing
to learn and improve be emulated by our people, especially the young."
Remonde, who was with Arroyo
in the trip, said that while the president was not able to watch the fight,
she and the delegation broke into cheers when they got the news.
Police said they recorded
low crime rates throughout the country during the fight, but at least one
man died from a heart attack while watching the bout.
Francisco Lalongisip, a
64-year-old driver, collapsed while he watched the fight in his neighbour's
house in San Pascual town in Batangas province, just south of Manila, according
to police officer Amiel Sanhi.
Lalongisip was rushed to
the hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival.
In Manila, a 49-year-old
man also suffered a heart attack while watching the fight at the crowded
Dapitan Sports Complex. He was brought to the hospital for treatment, Chief
Superintendent Roberto Rosales said.
Rosales added that only
one crime was reported in Manila during the fight, compared to an average
25 crimes a day in the first quarter of the year.
Catholic bishops and priests
also congratulated Pacquiao for his victory, even though attendance at Sunday
masses was down with families staying home or going to cinemas to watch the
fight.
------------------------
Martin Nievera, Tom Jones sing anthems at
Pacquiao-Hatton bout
GMA News, 05/03/2009
MANILA, Philippines –
Martin Nievera, wearing a T-shirt designed by the late rapper Francis Magalona,
broke tradition by being the first male to sing the Philippine National Anthem
for Manny Pacquiao at the Filipino icon's IBO light welterweight bout with
Ricky Hatton, Saturday at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday
(Sunday in Manila).
He was followed by pop icon
Sir Tom Jones, who sang "God Save the Queen," the British National Anthem,
and Fil-Am Jasmine Villegas, who sang the "Star-Spangled Banner," the US
National Anthem.
The bout is being witnessed
by a star-studded audience that includes Oscar de la Hoya, Jack Nicholson,
and Mariah Carey.
Sports analysts Ed Picson
and Ed Tolentino were one in saying that the Battle of the East and West
would be a brutal fight, but Pacquiao’s speed might once again lead
him to victory and cement his reputation as the world’s pound-for-pound
king of boxing.
WATCH
VIDEO! Martin Nievera sings "Lupang Hinirang" at MGM Grand Las Vegas before
Pacquiao-Hatton fight
Lani teams up with Earl Turner
in Vegas shows
from FUNFARE by Ricardo
F. Lo
Philippine Star, April 23, 2009
 I
will let my Las Vegas correspondent tell the following story with a clipping
he sent Funfare, from the Las Vegas Sun. The story, titled Vegas veteran,
Society of Seven singer team up for Hilton gig, was written by Jerry Fink.
Long-time Vegas entertainer
Earl Turner and versatile Philippine vocalist Lani Misalucha join forces
beginning Wednesday April 22 at the Las Vegas Hilton’s Shimmer Cabaret
for a show, entitled Voices, that promises to be as dynamic and inspiring
as any in town.
“Lani has a different
style and energy,” Turner says. “And you know what I play —
I’m old school. Taking these two styles and putting them together should
be lot of fun.”
Misalucha sang with the
Society of Seven for four years, and can switch among opera, rock and pop
with ease. She can stop a show with one of her arias.
And Turner’s entire
act is a show-stopper. He’s a mountain of energy and enthusiasm who
puts every ounce of his heart and soul into every performance.
When the Society of Seven
ended its run at the Flamingo a couple of years ago, Misalucha joined the
group for a national tour and then toured with Arnel Pineda a popular Filipino
singer-songwriter who became lead singer of the rock group Journey.
“It was great
success,” she says. “He’s such a great talent and I’m
looking forward to another tour with him. I just don’t know when.”
For now, her plate is full
with the open-ended run of Voices.
Turner was a mainstay on
the Las Vegas entertainment scene for years, first in the lounges and then
in the showrooms. He performed at the Rio for several years before heading
for Harrah’s in New Orleans, a gig that ended with Hurricane Katrina.
He returned to Vegas with
his family after the hurricane and kept busy with a long-running show at
Palace Station, corporate gigs and performances at Harrah’s properties
in Laughlin and other cities.
“We hope to bring back
some old-fashioned entertainment, the way it used to be done,” Turner
says. “It’s kind of like Donny & Marie, only we’re not
Donny & Marie.”
Their backing band includes
Walter Cunningham, keyboards and musical director; Tex Richardson, arranger
and co-musical director; Chris Coleman, bass; Tommy Steele, sax, flute, harmonica
and keyboards; Chandler Judkins, trumpet and keyboards; Jeff Way (who also
plays for Jersey Boys), guitar; and Darryl Woolfolk (brother of Andrew Woolfolk,
an original member of Earth, Wind and Fire), drums.
“I’ve got to have
a live band,” Turner says. “Everything is live. If somebody
doesn’t play, you’ll know it.”
It will be a fluid show.
“We’re somewhat
flexible,” Earl says. “Guest artists can come in and do a spot.
If Lani or I have to be gone, someone can fill in for us. The way the show
is set up, we don’t have to have a set stage pattern for us to do the
show.”
‘I Love
piNoY
from PEPPERMILL by Pepper Teehankee
Philippine Star, Oct. 21, 2008
Start spreading the news: Pinoys are taking
over the Big Apple.
 Well, almost. Former
TV personality in the Philippines and now New York entrepreneur Samantha
Lopez would be happy enough to take even just a small bite of the Big Apple
to put Pinoy talent in New York’s radar.
Through her production outfit, Samantha Lopez
Productions or SLP, Sam hopes it will be just a matter of time before
non-Filipino New Yorkers can label “ILOVEpiNoY,” and enjoy what
SLP has to offer — Pinoy arts, culture and entertainment served up with
a New York twist.
Sam set up the production outfit with the
intention of creating a whole new level of entertainment targeted not only
to Filipinos but non-Filipinos as well. For Sam, New York is the perfect
place to share her love for Pinoys.
“IlovepiNoY” is, of course, a spin-off
of the famed “I heart NY” concept. It’s an ingenious logo
that Billy Samson crafted for SLP. This early, the merchandising potential
for it looks promising. In fact, the T-shirts alone are selling fast.
For Samantha, who has lived in New York for
the past seven years,
the “ILOVEpiNoY” concept gives her a sense
of Pinoy pride. Sam helps her husband Warren Edwards at the upscale shoe
store named after her husband and managed by dear friend Ayie Barrios at
107 East 60th St. in Manhattan.
At the formal launch party at Serafina in
SoHo, Pinoys and non-Pinoys mingled to share Sam’s new venture. Honorable
Consul General Cecilia Rebong joined her in unraveling the banner. Writer
Carissa Villacorta, also of the Philippine Consulate, came with the consul
general and Giselle Aranda of Time magazine. Giving Sam more
“ILOVEpiNoY” moments were Caroline del Rosario with immigration
lawyer husband Mark, Cora Rivera, Dindi Gallardo, publisher of Planet Philippines
Luis Pedron, Asian Journal editor-in-chief Momar Visaya, Manny Agbanlog of
New Jersey-based Filipino Times, Tim Garcia of Fingerprint Communications,
copywriter/journalist Dennis Clemente, Terry Badiola of Carousel Pinoy, Nanding
and Mila Mendez of Philippine Fiesta, owners of the fast-growing Pinoy events
and marketing company, Cesca Litton, Paulie and Carla Villacorta and Robin
Tomas.
Also toasting to Sam’s successful launch
party were Konstantin Yusipov of Capital One, Katrina Quintas of ALTOUR,
chef Noel dela Rama, Ria Del Rosario, Bea Tenchavez, Christie Tan, Lucia
Santiago, Stacy Brennan, Nicole Hernandez, Christine Larranaga, Clement Gavarry
(otherwise known as the “nose” of the Sarah Jessica Parker perfume),
Filipino restaurateurs Nell Castellvi of Perlas ng Silangan on Roosevelt
Avenue in Queens and Henry and Marissa Beck of Grill 21 in Manhattan.
True to making her concept an event not only
for Filipinos but non-Filipinos as well, Sam’s first SLP foray is a
first, a comicfest featuring Rex Navarrete of Hawaii, Ron Josol of Canada
and Air Tabigue of New York, three of the best Filipino stand-up comedians
in North America.
Later, Dindi, Carissa and Kate Gordon, former
mayor of Olongapo City, took to the stage to raffle two-day stay at Two Seasons
Resort in Boracay while Beverly Hills 6750 and Warren Edwards gave away gift
certificates. Other sponsors are San Miguel Beer, Serafina, Western Union
and America Calls.
Sam can’t wait to launch another event
showing Filipino talents for the greatest city to see and appreciate. Nothing
thrills her more than to see a Pinoy take center stage in New York. To her,
“If you can make it in the Philippines, you can make it anywhere. Even
in New York.”
(To learn more about SLP’s
“ILOVEpiNoY,” visit
www.ilovepinoynyc.com)
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